Solar radiation limits the use of paddocks by laying hens raised in the free-range system

Thermal Conditions of Laying Quail Sheds in Brazil

“…Upper areas represent the warmest regions of the shed, as hot air is less dense and tends to rise and accumulate in this area [15]. The radiant thermal load absorbed by the roof is another contributing factor [16,17]. It was found that most farmers controlled shed temperature using curtains and high roofs, regardless of farm size.…”

“…In Brazil, the irregular temporal and spatial distribution of rainfall, added to the high air temperatures and radiation, accentuates tropical climate effects and increases the vulnerability of warmer regions to human activities, such as animal production. A country with a predominantly tropical climate, such as Brazil, may face serious problems with high solar radiation levels [17]. Meteorological variables (air temperature and solar radiation) had high averages throughout the year in all regions, namely in the South and Southeast (26 • C), Northeast (30 • C), and Central-West and North (31 • C).…”

“…Sheds with fully open walls were more frequent in the North (33%), Northeast, and Central-West (16%), which are the regions closest to the Equator and, consequently, have high solar radiation load. Solar radiation reached 828 W m −2 in the Central-West [17]. It is suggested to have non-fruit trees outside sheds to decrease solar radiation.…”